You will have to show proof of health insurance when applying for visas to most countries. In any case, you must have a cover since medical costs abroad, especially in the US, are high and can completely throw your finances out of gear should you need to incur them.

You can buy insurance in the country you are going to, or in India. The latter usually works out cheaper (see Under Cover). Sudhir Menon, who heads the travel insurance business of ICICI Lombard, says: "This policy (the one offered by his company) costs one-third of similar policies in US universities. These can also be tailored to the requirements of specific universities."

STEP X: Apply for a visa

This is the final hurdle and moving early helps here too. Apart from a required set of documents that are similar for all countries, an interview is mandatory for the US visa.

"You should be able to convince the consular officer that you intend to go to the US to study and then return," says Sunrit Mullick, regional officer and educational advisor, regional office, United States Educational Foundation in India, Kolkata. Sukhwani adds that you should be careful of using the right form and should avoid changes.

While Australian visas can be applied for online, for the rest you need to pay a visit to the visa office. Marina Gandhi, head, Education UK, East India, British Council, says biometric details will be taken at that time for UK visas.

Most embassies want proof of funds for the first year. Australia needs them for the entire duration of the course, before it issues a visa. (see Moving Your Visa).

Powered by

Also see: How to land yourself an assistantship

Previous

|

Next